Final Message of the ICMC Council meeting 2026
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We, the global International Catholic Migration Commission (ICMC) family representing 71 countries and territories around the world, gathered in Rome on 10-12 November to celebrate 75 years of service since our founding by Pope Pius XII.
During these days, we heard testimony from refugees and survivors of human trafficking, and shared in their journeys of hardship and hope. We listened to one another describe the realities of human mobility in every region of the world, and the challenges and engagement of the Church in supporting and accompanying uprooted people. Together, we carved a roadmap to guide the future of our joint engagement.
We acknowledge that in today’s world, the realities of people on the move are becoming increasingly dire. Drivers of displacement are intensifying, policies are becoming more restrictive, and migrants and refugees are often scapegoated and vilified. Through our daily work, we bear witness to the harmful effects of these deteriorations for the societies and communities in which we all live.
We are aware that, all around the world, uprooted people look at the Catholic Church as a presence of accompaniment and support, and a credible and courageous advocate for their sacred human dignity. This is a powerful testimony and reminder that we are one Church, with one heart, accompanying people on the move, knowing that “in every rejected migrant, it is Christ himself who knocks at the door of the community” (Leo XIV, Apostolic Exhortation Dilexi te).
We remain committed to the Gospel call “I was a stranger and you welcomed Me”, and guided by the long-standing tradition of Catholic Social Teaching: the simple yet profound belief that those who are displaced, uprooted, or marginalized are our brothers and sisters in humanity.
We draw inspiration and strength from the words that Pope Leo XIV addressed to us at the beginning of our gathering: “I urge you to persevere in your noble and important mission of strengthening the Church’s services to welcome, protect, promote, and integrate migrants, refugees, and returnees. I likewise encourage you to advocate courageously for the recognition and respect of their God-given dignity (…) I pray that your efforts will help find new ways to care for displaced children.”
At the conclusion of the ICMC Council meeting, we renew our commitment to our joint mission, and we say:
To those in charge of our countries and societies: seek cooperation to address the root causes of displacement, respect the human rights of people on the move, and promote social inclusion.
To those who welcome refugees and migrants: persevere in your spirit of solidarity and openness, and keep building bridges of peace around you.
To those who reject them: do not give in to fear and indifference, but instead open your hearts and discover the richness and creativity of encountering your brothers and sisters on the move.
To people on the move: you are God’s children, and the ICMC family recognizes you as dear sisters and brothers; let us join hands and build just and welcoming societies where all can thrive and contribute to the common good.
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